I don’t know a whole lot about Jonathan Coulton, but I was recently sucked into a video for the song “Shop Vac.” Not knowing whether this was a commercial or song, my curiosity told me to investigate a little closer. One view of this video, I was entertained by the typography animation and the catchy-ness of the song, itself. I was also very amused. I hope you will be too as you watch this and feel free to check out his site for more musical mischief…

I’ve been a bit reflective lately about life. That is why this song from Buddy Guy’s recently released CD Living Proof really struck me. It’s a collaboration between Buddy and fellow blues legend B.B. King. I really love the reflective tone in the lyrics and the sense of gratitude that these legends express throughout the song. But I especially like the last minute of this video where B.B. and Buddy exchange some thoughts over the tasty blues licks and the touching statement at the end when B.B. King says to Buddy Guy, “when I’m pushing up daisies, don’t forget you’re still my Buddy.”

If you want to see what is possible when two talented individuals collaborate on a project, check out this video from both John Lee Hooker and Carlos Santana. Recorded back in the late 80’s, it features two age-less timeless musicians. It’s been a long time since I heard this one and I forgot just how good it is…

According to a receipt that I recently found, it was this day in 1986 that I purchased my first guitar. I was in high school and after a great deal of drooling, er dreaming, I decided to purchase my first guitar – a Kramer, an electric guitar which was the same brand Eddie Van Halen played in the early 1980’s. My life has never been the same since. You see, I have always been musically obsessed (and slightly challenged).

Truth be told, I’ve never been a great guitar player. But noodling on my guitar and jamming with friends has been something I will always remember and it will always be one of my favorite creative outlets. I also remember many solo recording sessions where I’m sure I drove the neighbors crazy. Today, I still play my cheap acoustic guitar (purchased a few years later), thankful (and proud) that I’m a much better guitar player than a Guitar Hero® player.

In honor of this significant day for me, I give you a newly released Jimi Hendrix song Valleys of Neptune off the recently released album of the same name. To me, Hendrix was pure genius and poetry and light. I hope you enjoy…